Royal Caribbean Group this month marks the 30th anniversary of the creation of its first environmental initiative.
Save the Waves has evolved into a global commitment to “engrain sustainability practices” into every aspect of the cruise giant’s business and culture.
It serves as the foundation for the company’s Destination Net Zero decarbonisation strategy.
Established in 1992, Save the Waves was Initially focused on waste management and reduction.
It progressed to a company-wide undertaking, bolstered by a range of policies, training, activities and technological innovations.
Save the Waves has also served as a catalyst to develop the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework.
The group highlighted key milestones including:
- Introducing the industry’s first dedicated on board environmental officers to ensure waste standards are met with daily monitoring, testing and compliance controls.
- Becoming the first cruise company to be ISO 14001 for environmental management certified.
- Diverting 87% of its waste from landfills through its ‘Green Hub’ waste vendor system that ensures waste is recycled, repurposed or sent to a waste to energy facility.
- Equipping its global fleet with state-of-the-art waste management facilities, systems and processes established to divert waste streams from local landfills.
- Installing advanced wastewater purification systems across 88% of its fleet that treats wastewater to standards twice as stringent as US federal regulations.
- Training every crew member with in-depth Save the Waves training upon joining. They are then expected to follow proper waste management protocols.
Group president and chief executive Jason Liberty said: “Save the Waves has served as the strong foundation for what we have accomplished and the ambitious sustainability efforts we are committed to at Royal Caribbean Group.
“The programme, for decades, has helped us create a culture dedicated to environmental performance and our commitment to protecting our oceans.”
Environmental programmes associate vice president Nick Rose added: “Decades ago, when we introduced Save the Waves, we made a commitment to continuous improvement that we live by today.
“Throughout my 15-year career at Royal Caribbean Group, including four years as an environmental officer, I have been proud to be part of our continual progress in this area, which wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of thousands of crew members and millions of guests.”